What is Ayurveda?

History of Ayurveda

Ayurveda is translated as the science of life and is thought to be an eternal science that first existed in the universal consciousness (Brahma) before it was passed from the creator to the ancient Indian mystics through meditation. 
The origins of Ayurveda can be traced well over 5000 years ago. From 3300–1300 BCE many foods and spices  associated with Ayurvedic cuisine, including rice, mung beans, spices, ginger and turmeric were being cultivated and enjoyed. During between 500 and 1000 BCE in an ancient form of Sanskrit, the Vedas, explained the elements of life. In particular, it explained fire, wind, and water, as well as the Earth element and their effects upon plants and animals.  Many herbs, some now unknown and some still used in modern Ayurveda, were originally attributed in the Vedas.
By around 600 BCE, a new thought process of reason and curiosity dawned across the known world, with the likes of Plato,  Aristotle and the Buddha. From this inspiration of empiricism and reason, the texts of Ayurveda, specifically Charak Samhita and Sushrut Samhita, arose. Rooted in history, and having survived and grown through the test of time, Ayurveda is practiced very successfully in India as well as in the United States and across the world.

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What Ayurveda is Not

Ayurveda in the United States is not a substitute for your primary care physician or specialist for your health needs or conditions. Ayurveda is a complimentary and educational aspect to add to your wellness plan. Currently in the United States, Ayurvedic Doctors are not able to perform the full scope of practice that they are in other countries. An Ayurvedic Practitioner is not a licensed health care practitioner and may not provide a medical diagnosis. Ayurvedic Practitioner professionals have in-depth additional training in pathology and disease management beyond that of an Ayurvedic Health Counselor. They are able to work with people in health and those struggling with health challenges. These professionals also practice preventive healthcare and health promotion, using diet and lifestyle. For more information about Ayurveda in the United States, please visit the NAMA website at www.ayurvedanama.org 

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How Ayurveda Can Help Me

Ayurveda follows the concept of understanding the doshas in order to balance the body throughout the seasons, times of the day and as we age. The three ayurvedic body/mental types, or doshas, are known as Vata, Pitta and Kapha. Vata is a combination of Space/Ether and air, Pitta is fire and a little water and Kapha is water and earth. Each of these dosha has a unique set of characteristics and if allowed to go out of balance for a longer period of time a small imbalance can, eventually lead to a disease state. Another important aspect of Ayurveda is the Srotas, otherwise known as channels in the body such as the gastrointestinal tract, which become blocked or otherwise compromised. This also may be addressed to prevent further decline and enhance such vital wellness challenges such as immunity, sleep and energy. Finally, there is something called the Nadis which are channels for the flow of energy or consciousness. There are many Nadis/channels but the three main ones are the right and left nostril and the spine. Understanding these amazing physical forces within the body can deeply and permanently affect how one views their role as healer to themselves. Ayurveda is as simple as choosing a warm, cooked meal for digestion or sleeping at a different time. With the education and support of a certified Ayurvedic Practitoner not only will you discover what might be imbalanced, but how you can, over time, affordably and simply renew your vitality. “The great thing about Ayurveda is that its treatments always yield side benefits, not side effects.”
― Shubhra Krishan, Essential Ayurveda

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What Results Can I Expect with Ayurveda

Ayurveda is whole body and mind approach to your health and overall wellness. Sometimes your imbalance, known as the Vikruti, may be quickly realigned through simple changes and a brief amount of time. Sometimes, the imbalance may have been developing longer and therefore require a longer period of time and lifestyle adjustment regimen. Your first consultation will be a comprehensive review of your overall health history, your lifestyle patterns over time and especially, currently, as well as social stressors that affect your daily life. Your face, eyes, tongue and pulse (if you are an in person consultation) will be reviewed. You will be asked a progressive series of questions in regards to your intake (food, water, sleep, screen time etc) as well as your removal of wastes (physical activity, sweat, bathroom habits etc). Options for creating increased wellness may include dietary changes, time of day adjustments, seasonal adjustments, physical activity recommendations, stress reduction techniques, better breathing options with or without meditation, external/body care options, as well as one herb or multi-herb Ayurvedic formulations. You can be assured that the changes suggested will fit within your stated perimeters and can regularly be integrated into your day/night. Changes can be made as you feel better and need less robust support. Ultimately, the True You is the Well You!